Celexa

OVERDOSE

Human Experience

In clinical trials of citalopram, there were reports of
citalopram overdose, including overdoses of up to 2000mg, with no associated
fatalities. During the postmarketing evaluation of citalopram, Celexa
overdoses, including overdoses of up to 6000 mg, have been reported. As with
other SSRIs, a fatal outcome in a patient who has taken an overdose of citalopram
has been rarely reported.

Management Of Overdose

Establish and maintain an airway to ensure adequate
ventilation and oxygenation. Gastric evacuation by lavage and use of activated
charcoal should be considered. Careful observation and cardiac and vital sign
monitoring are recommended, along with general symptomatic and supportive care.
Due to the large volume of distribution of citalopram, forced diuresis,
dialysis, hemoperfusion, and exchange transfusion are unlikely to be of
benefit. There are no specific antidotes for Celexa.

In managing overdosage, consider the possibility of
multiple-drug involvement. The physician should consider contacting a poison
control center for additional information on the treatment of any overdose.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

The use of MAOIs intended to treat psychiatric disorders
with Celexa or within 14 days of stopping treatment with Celexa is
contraindicated because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome. The use of
Celexa within 14 days of stopping an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric
disorders is also contraindicated (see WARNINGS and DOSAGE AND
ADMINISTRATION).

Starting Celexa in a patient who is being treated with
MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue is also contraindicated
because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome (see WARNINGS and DOSAGE
AND ADMINISTRATION).

Concomitant use in patients taking pimozide is
contraindicated (see PRECAUTIONS).

Celexa is contraindicated in patients with a
hypersensitivity to citalopram or any of the inactive ingredients in Celexa.

Last reviewed on RxList: 11/24/2014
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.